PPMI | Part of the Verian Group, in partnership with FGB and CSES, has completed a comprehensive evaluation of the European Heritage Label (EHL) Action covering the period 2018-2024 for the European Commission's Directorate-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture. The study assessed a programme that celebrates sites of exceptional importance to European history and culture, examining how effectively the initiative has strengthened European citizens' sense of belonging and promoted intercultural dialogue through cultural heritage.
The European Heritage Label recognises heritage sites that have played significant roles in European history and EU development.
PPMI team employs innovative mixed-methods approach
The PPMI-led consortium employed an innovative mixed-methods evaluation framework, combining traditional research techniques with cutting-edge technology. The research team conducted 30 in-depth interviews with stakeholders across Europe, surveyed the heritage sites and national coordinators, and developed detailed case studies of four countries (Finland, Italy, Netherlands, and Poland).
The assessment covered all 25 participating EU Member States and examined the programme's effectiveness, efficiency, relevance, coherence, and European added value. Three focused workshops addressed key governance challenges and cross-border cooperation opportunities.
Evaluation reveals strong programme performance with growth opportunities
The evaluation found that the EHL has largely achieved its core objectives, with designated sites successfully implementing educational programmes and highlighting their European significance. All sites continue to meet the label's criteria, and many have strengthened their capacity to communicate European values, history, and culture to diverse audiences.
Key successes identified include enhanced visibility of European cultural heritage, improved educational outreach particularly targeting young people, and effective networking between sites across borders. The recent establishment of the EHL Bureau has strengthened collaboration and provided new funding opportunities for joint projects between heritage sites.
However, PPMI's analysis also identified some challenges requiring attention as the programme prepares for renewal. These include room to increase public awareness of the EHL brand for increased impact, as well as adapting existing governance procedures to accommodate the label's growth.
The evaluation results directly inform the European Commission's preparation of new legislation to continue the EHL beyond 2025, when the current legal framework expires. The report provides detailed recommendations for modernising programme objectives, improving selection and monitoring procedures.
